Glossary - Common Childhood Injuries and Poisonings

Abrasion - a superficial rub or wearing off of the skin, usually caused by a scrape or "brush burn."

Acetaminophen - a pain-relieving and fever-reducing drug found in many over-the-counter medications.

Anaphylaxis (Also called anaphylactic shock.) - a sudden, severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction caused by food allergy, insect stings, or medications. Symptoms can include hives, swelling (especially of the lips and face), trouble breathing (either because of swelling in the throat or an asthmatic reaction), vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, and a drop in blood pressure.

Antibiotic - a group of drugs that kill bacteria and other organisms that cause disease.

Antihistamine drugs - drugs that block the effects of histamine, a chemical released in the body during an allergic reaction.

Anti-inflammatory drugs - drugs that reduce the signs and symptoms of inflammation.

Antivenin - an antidote to snake venom used to treat serious snake bites. Antivenin is derived from antibodies created in a horse's blood serum when the animal is injected with snake venom. Because antivenin is obtained from horses, snakebite victims sensitive to horse products must be carefully managed.

Carbon monoxide (CO) - a colorless, odorless gas which can be created whenever a fuel (such as wood, gasoline, coal, natural gas, or kerosene) burns incompletely.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) - an emergency life-saving technique. Artificial respirations and chest compressions are used to restart the heart and lungs.

Cat-scratch disease - a bacterial infection caused by the scratch or bite of a cat.

Computed tomography scan (Also called a CT or CAT scan.) - a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.

Heat cramps - painful muscle cramps and spasms caused by exercise and sweating in high heat. It is the mildest form of heat injury.

Heat exhaustion - heat injury due to extreme heat and excessive sweating without adequate salt and water replacement.

Heat stroke - the most severe form of heat injury and is a life-threatening emergency. It is the result of long, extreme exposure to the sun, in which a person does not sweat enough to lower body temperature.

Hematoma - a large bruise or collection of blood under the skin, producing discoloration and swelling in the area. It is usually caused by trauma.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.

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